Since 1790, the U.S. Coast Guard
has safeguarded the American people and promoted national
security, border security, and economic prosperity in a
complex and evolving maritime environment. The Coast Guard
saves those in peril and protects the Nation from all
maritime threats.
As a branch of the U.S. Armed
Forces, a law enforcement organization, a regulatory agency,
a member of the U.S. Intelligence Community, and a first
responder, the U.S. Coast Guard employs a unique mix of
authorities, broad jurisdiction, flexible operational
capabilities, and a network of partnerships. The Coast Guard
is the principal Federal agency responsible for maritime
safety, security, and environmental stewardship in U.S.
ports and inland waterways, along more than 95,000 miles of
U.S. coastline, throughout the 4.5 million square miles of
U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and on the high seas.
The over 50,000 members of the U.S. Coast Guard operate
a multi-mission, interoperable fleet of 259 Cutters, 200
fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, and over 1,600 boats.
Operational control of surface and air assets is vested in
two Coast Guard geographical Areas (Pacific and Atlantic),
nine Coast Guard Districts, and 37 Sectors located at
strategic ports throughout the country. Five Mission Support
Logistics and Service Centers provide services for
operational assets and shore facilities.
U.S. Coast Guard program oversight,
policy development, and personnel administration are carried
out at Coast Guard Headquarters located on the St.
Elizabeth's campus in Washington, DC.
U.S. Coast Guard video by
Telfair H. Brown January 23, 2021
